‘BROWN’S SCOTLAND RETURN A ONE-OFF,’ RODGERS

BRENDAN RODGERS backed Scott Brown’s Scotland u-turn and revealed his captain’s loyalty to former Celtic boss Gordon Strachan is behind it.

But the Hoops gaffer hinted it’s a one-game comeback and that he and his 31-year-old midfielder will revisit the decision after the World Cup qualifier against England at Wembley on November 11.

Rodgers said: “Scott spoke to me about it during the week to get my thoughts on it.

“I gave him what I thought were the positives for him and what maybe the concerns would be. I think it’s a great opportunity.

“He’s always stood up for his country. I don’t know too many bad games he’s ever had, from any time I’ve seen him for Scotland.

“Right now, he sees his country stuck with some injuries and also a man he has huge admiration for, in Gordon Strachan, going through the mill a wee bit.

“You have to admire that in someone.

“So, he’s made himself available for this game, to help them out if he’s selected. I’ll be at the game and I know that Scotland will be a better team with Scott Brown playing in it.

“He’s an outstanding player and it’s a great tonic for Scotland.”

However, asked if Brown had indicated whether it would be a permanent arrangement, Rodgers said: “I think it’s just for this game. He has made himself available if Gordon needs him.

“Gordon is someone who brought him to the club, someone he has huge admiration for.

“The type of man that Scott is, he wouldn’t like to see people that he is loyal to stuck – and I totally respect that.

“So, it helps Gordon in this game, then, hopefully, he comes back to Celtic and continues with the great form he has been in.”

Rodgers added: “It’s been a short retirement! But we’ll see how it goes against England and take it from there.

“I was a wee bit surprised when he pulled me. He came into the office and wanted a chat.

“But he’s a grown man, he makes his own decisions. I’ll give him the advice and if it helps Scotland, then good.”